Pepe had planned Casillas goal tribute

Shockwaves were sent around Spanish football at the end of Real's clash with Valladolid, when Pepe headed over to talk to 'Canal Plus' and leapt to the defence of Iker Casillas in light of José Mourinho's comments the previous day.

However, the touchpaper could have been lit several minutes earlier, if only Jaime hadn't kept out a goalbound attempt from Pepe. This is because the Portuguese had a very special goal celebration planned: he was going to run straight over to Casillas, who was seated in the dugout, behind Mourinho.

Had Pepe's plan come off, spectators would have found themselves faced with remarkable scenes, with the Portuguese centre-back jubilantly and defiantly hugging the Real Madrid captain in the technical area, right in Mou's face. Nevertheless, this unexpected taunt ultimately came to light at the final whistle.

The image is particularly striking when viewed in contrast to another incident involving Pepe earlier this season. During the league match against Deportivo in late September, the defender celebrated his goal by sprinting over to the bench and embracing Mourinho.

Mou was clearly grateful for the timing of this show of affection, as it came in the aftermath of the coach's high-profile run-in with Ramos and Özil. Ironically, the Spanish defender and German midfielder were themselves involved in a gesture of mutual solidarity - and defiance towards Mourinho - during the very same game.